London-based J Coffey Plant – the logistics support division of the J Coffey Group – has purchased two JCB 19C-1E electric mini excavators.
J Coffey Plant Division Operations Manager Tim Rayner said: “When reviewing our fleet we aim to go beyond compliance legislation and exceed the requirements of the NRMM (Non-Road Mobile Machinery Emission of Gaseous and Particulate Pollutants) regulations where possible, investing in eco-friendly electric and alternatively fuelled powered assets where appropriate.
“JCB had the best offering on paper and then, during trials on site, that very much proved to be the case in practice too. There were very limited competitive offerings unless we accepted a tethered machine – which posed significant problems with trailing cables as we found during trials of other brands.
“The JCB 19C-1E is an excellent size for working in basements and confined areas and the two machines are performing well. Operators and management have quickly adapted to the 19C-1E and there are no issues with battery life during the working day.
“The major benefit is no emissions at point of use. Our workers are not subjected to diesel emissions when using the 19C-1E. Confined areas are now clearer and safer to work in too, as there is no longer a need for emissions control equipment such as extraction units and ducting. The JCB electric minis bring value to the business and the industry as a whole.”
The JCB 19C-1E is powered by four lithium-ion batteries, providing 20kWh of energy storage. This is enough for a full working shift for the majority of mini excavator customers on a single charge. The 19C-1E itself is a powerful, compact model with zero exhaust emissions at point of use and one that is considerably quieter than a standard machine.
